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As of November 27, 2025, diplomatic tensions between Japan and China have intensified following Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's statement that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan's survival and justify a military response. China condemned the remarks, accusing Japan of militarism and colonial aggression, while Japan advances missile deployments near Taiwan. Taiwan supports Japan's security measures amid ongoing Chinese military pressure.
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As of late November 2025, the US, UK, Canada, and Japan face an early, severe flu season driven by the H3N2 subclade K variant, which has mutated beyond current vaccine strains. Hospital admissions and flu cases, especially among children and vulnerable groups, are rising. Concurrently, norovirus infections are doubling nationwide, with health officials urging hygiene and vaccination to mitigate risks.
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Japan's PM warns of military response to China over Taiwan, prompting Taiwan to ease food import restrictions and show solidarity. Beijing dismisses Taiwan's claims, escalating regional tensions amid economic and military pressures.
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Russia has implemented a visa-free entry policy for Chinese citizens for up to 30 days, effective immediately through September 2026. The move aims to boost tourism and strengthen ties amid diplomatic tensions with Japan, with Chinese travel interest surging as a result.
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American playwright and actor Harris, known for 'Slave Play,' was detained at Naha Airport, Okinawa, on Nov. 16 for possessing 0.78 grams of MDMA. He was released on Dec. 8 while authorities continue their investigation under Japan's strict drug laws. No charges have been confirmed yet.
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Germany's government is engaging in high-level talks with China to address trade issues, including rare earths and supply chain concerns. Chancellor Merz's coalition aims to reduce dependency on China and bolster economic resilience, amid rising tensions and a record trade deficit. The visit signals a strategic shift in Germany's China policy.
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Recent articles highlight evolving food trends, from innovative mocktails in New York to regional dessert debates and creative holiday pies. Stories include viral food experiments, store-bought pie reviews, and insights into traditional favorites like pumpkin and sweet potato pie.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent remarks linking a Chinese attack on Taiwan to Japan's military response have triggered diplomatic protests from China. Beijing responded with accusations of violations of international law, economic measures, and canceled bilateral events, deepening regional tensions amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan's sovereignty.
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On Tuesday evening, a fire broke out in Korail, one of Dhaka's largest slums, burning for 16 hours and destroying about 1,500 shanties. Thousands of residents, many climate refugees, were left homeless. Firefighters struggled due to narrow alleys. The slum lies between affluent neighborhoods, highlighting stark urban contrasts in Bangladesh's capital.
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Danilo Yavhushyshyn, a Ukrainian sumo wrestler known as Aonishiki Arata, was promoted to the rank of ozeki after winning a major tournament in Japan. His rise highlights the increasing diversity in sumo, with non-Japanese wrestlers excelling despite traditional gender and cultural barriers.
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Recent remarks by Japan's new leader have heightened diplomatic tensions, prompting Chinese cruise ships and tourists to avoid Japanese ports and favor South Korea. This shift benefits South Korea's tourism industry but raises concerns about long-term regional stability.
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Mone Chiba won the free skate at the Finlandia Trophy, securing her spot in the Grand Prix Final in Nagoya. Yuma Kagiyama also claimed victory in men's singles, both representing Japan. The event featured strong performances despite some falls, with notable results for American and Canadian skaters as well.
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U.S. and Chinese leaders held a call discussing Taiwan, Ukraine, and trade, with Xi reaffirming Taiwan as part of China. Japan's military comments on Taiwan drew Chinese condemnation. The story highlights ongoing geopolitical tensions and recent diplomatic exchanges.
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Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi made comments suggesting military action if China attacks Taiwan, prompting a diplomatic row with China. Trump discussed the issue with both Xi Jinping and Takaichi, with US support for Taiwan now uncertain amid escalating tensions. The dispute impacts regional stability and economic relations.
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Last week, a Tokyo court ruled that Japan's refusal to recognize same-sex marriages does not violate the constitution, a setback for LGBTQ+ advocates. The decision follows a series of legal cases challenging the ban, with the Supreme Court expected to review the matter.
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In November 2025, Cyclone Ditwah and related monsoon storms caused catastrophic flooding and landslides across Sri Lanka, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. Over 2,500 deaths have been reported, with millions displaced and widespread infrastructure damage. Scientists link the severity to climate change, with warmer Indian Ocean waters intensifying storms and rainfall.
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Cyclone Ditwah caused severe flooding, landslides, and destruction across Sri Lanka, affecting over 1.2 million people, with at least 88 confirmed deaths and hundreds missing. Relief efforts are ongoing amid infrastructure damage and heavy rains, with more adverse weather expected.
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Economists and international organizations project a modest slowdown in global growth for 2026, influenced by trade tensions, tariffs, and AI investment. The US economy is expected to grow around 2%, with risks from trade policies and AI market speculation. Forecasts remain cautious amid ongoing uncertainties.
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A Japanese gardener who became a citizen shares insights on Japan's cultural significance, while Japan's political leadership emphasizes economic growth and international cooperation at key conferences, highlighting a focus on tradition and strategic global engagement.
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The Dell family announced a $6.25 billion donation to seed 'Trump Accounts,' investment accounts for 25 million children born between 2016 and 2028. The accounts, part of a federal law, aim to promote long-term wealth building through stock market investments, with accounts opening in July 2026.
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Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned last month that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could provoke a response from Tokyo. Meanwhile, China seeks stronger communication with France and the UK on regional issues, emphasizing the 'One China' principle amid ongoing tensions over Taiwan and Ukraine.
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The US has softened its stance on China, reopening high-end chip sales and avoiding confrontation over Taiwan amid increased Chinese military activity. Washington emphasizes cooperation and stability, while regional tensions escalate with China’s military drills and diplomatic pressure on Japan and Taiwan.
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Australia's defence and foreign ministers met US counterparts in Washington to discuss Indo-Pacific stability, critical minerals, and troop deployments. They highlighted progress on AUKUS and reaffirmed regional security commitments, amid rising tensions with China and Japan. The visit underscores Australia's strategic focus on regional alliances.
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Recent statements by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about a potential Chinese attack on Taiwan have escalated tensions with China. Beijing has responded with historical references and military warnings, amid ongoing disputes over Taiwan, regional security, and historical grievances related to the 1937 Nanjing massacre. Diplomatic and military incidents have increased in recent days.
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Scotland qualified for the 2025 World Cup after a 28-year wait, drawing Group C with Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti. Fans face high ticket prices and late kick-off times in the US, raising concerns about accessibility and viewing conditions. The tournament features 48 teams across North America, with ticketing and scheduling adjustments impacting supporters.
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Chinese J-15 fighter jets launched from the Liaoning aircraft carrier targeted Japanese F-15s with radar locks near Okinawa. Japan protested the incidents, calling them dangerous acts exceeding safe operational limits. China disputes the claims, citing routine exercises. No injuries or damage reported.
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Japan's economy contracted by 0.6% in the third quarter, revised from earlier estimates. Exports declined slightly, and private residential investment fell 8.2%. U.S. tariffs on autos and imports have strained Japan-U.S. relations, while Japan's new prime minister seeks economic revival.
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On Monday night, a magnitude 7.5 earthquake struck about 80 km off the coast of Aomori Prefecture, Japan, triggering tsunami warnings for Hokkaido, Aomori, and Iwate prefectures. Waves up to 70 cm were recorded before all tsunami advisories were lifted by Tuesday morning. At least 33 people were injured, power outages occurred, and transport services were temporarily suspended. Authorities warn of possible aftershocks and an increased risk of a larger quake.
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As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan approach, issues with rink dimensions and ice quality have emerged. The main arena's construction delays and deviations from NHL standards raise safety and gameplay concerns, with the main rink scheduled for completion just days before the events begin. NHL officials remain cautiously optimistic.
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Russian and Chinese military aircraft entered South Korea’s Air Defence Identification Zone (KADIZ) on Tuesday, prompting South Korea to deploy fighter jets. Japan also responded with military measures amid joint Russian-Chinese air drills, which China and Russia say are routine exercises. The incident highlights ongoing regional military activity.
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Japan has lifted a recent earthquake advisory in Hokkaido and Sanriku regions after a magnitude 7.5 quake. Authorities say the risk of a megaquake has decreased but urge continued vigilance. The advisory was issued following a quake that caused minor injuries and damage, with no tsunami reported. Officials emphasize preparedness remains essential.
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U.S. health officials, under the influence of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., have reversed decades of vaccination policy by ending universal hepatitis B vaccination for newborns. The move, driven by a panel with controversial appointees, faces widespread criticism from medical groups and public health experts, raising concerns over increased hepatitis B risks.
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Recent days have seen heightened military activity in East Asia, with Chinese fighter jets locking radar on Japanese aircraft, joint US-Japan military flights, and Russian-Chinese bomber patrols near Japan. These actions increase regional tensions and concern over potential escalation.
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On December 10, 2025, US Customs and Border Protection proposed mandatory collection of five years of social media data, phone numbers, emails, and biometric information from travelers under the Visa Waiver Program. This expands existing social media screening to visa-exempt visitors from 42 countries, including the UK, France, Australia, Japan, and Israel, aiming to enhance national security ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Public comments are open for 60 days.
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Recent reports reveal stark global inequality, with the ultra-rich controlling three times the wealth of the poorest half. Women earn significantly less and work longer hours worldwide, highlighting persistent gender disparities amid growing economic concentration at the top.
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On December 10, 2025, UNESCO inscribed Italy's culinary traditions and rituals as intangible cultural heritage, highlighting the social and cultural importance of practices like family meals and cooking rituals. Italy is the first country to receive this recognition for its cuisine, emphasizing sustainability, regional diversity, and the communal nature of food preparation and consumption.
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The expanded 48-team World Cup draw has been announced, highlighting potential upsets and tough groups. England faces Croatia first, while teams like Brazil, France, and Norway are positioned for strong runs. The format aims to reduce early eliminations, but unpredictability remains high.
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Recent surveys reveal a surge in food bank use among UK parents, with over 1.7 million relying on food support due to rising living costs. Many parents report sending children to bed hungry, highlighting ongoing economic hardship and increased demand for charitable aid.
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A magnitude 7.5 earthquake off Aomori on December 8 prompted tsunami warnings and a special quake advisory for northern Japan. The advisory has now been lifted, but authorities warn of ongoing aftershocks and urge continued vigilance and preparedness among residents in the affected regions.
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Salih, former Iraqi president, is set to succeed Filippo Grandi as UN High Commissioner for Refugees. The appointment, pending formal approval, comes amid a year of significant funding cuts and rising global displacement. Salih's background and vision aim to reshape the agency's approach to refugee aid.
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The Bank of Japan is expected to raise its interest rate to 0.75% following a positive quarterly survey, signaling confidence in economic recovery. The move impacts markets, including a dip in bitcoin, as Japan shifts toward tighter monetary policy to combat inflation and a weak currency.
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Tokyo's last two pandas, Xiao Xiao and Lei Lei, will be returned to China by late January, ending over half a century of panda presence in Japan. The move follows worsening diplomatic relations between Japan and China, with public sentiment and tourism impacted by geopolitical disputes. Visitors queued for hours to see the twins, whose departure marks a significant shift in panda diplomacy.